"Pathfinder" Survival Pistol

The "Pathfinder"

Work in Progress - Still in Active Development

The "Pathfinder" survival pistol started out initially as a simple, open bolt "slam fire" 22 caliber pistol that was inexpensive and easy to produce as a largely 3D printed design, with only a handful of off-the-shelf metal components. 

It operated using a heavy bolt and a stiff mainspring to contain the force of the backpressure generated by discharging a 22LR round. Assembled, it weighed a little less than a pound, but it wasn't very compact. 

Eventually, I discovered that my Pathfinder "almost" fit into one of the spare pockets of the survival bag I keep as a pilot. This led me to begin redesigning the Pathfinder to fit more of a last ditch survival role, rather than just being a simple range toy. 

In its current form, the Pathfinder is a closed bolt, striker fired single shot handgun that features a clamshell style receiver for easy takedown and maintenance, as well as a folding grip that safely covers the trigger, allowing the firearm to be more compact for storage. The receiver features a full length rail on the top, and a shorter accessory rail on the bottom, however accessories must be removed prior to disassembly due to the split receiver design. 

This firearm is designed to be 3D printable using PLA+ and other common commercial filaments, however it will be produced by means of either SLS or MJF additive manufacturing, for long term survivability.